We hear much about small groups in churches these days. Some may question the benefit of small group studies versus large groups.
Questions about Small Group Studies Versus Larger Groups
Why teach in small groups when you can reach more in a larger group?
While it is true that you will reach more people in a large group setting, the group dynamic will differ, allowing different possibilities in smaller groups than larger ones.
Here are benefits of small groups: 1) provide opportunity for deeper sharing as it is less intimidating than in a large group, 2) maximize participation so more people can engage more often, 3) increase the potential of fellowship and ministry to one another as people are able to get to know one another better, 4) engender a sense of accountability as it isn’t as easy to hide in a small group, 5) enable teachers to do more shepherding as their span of influence isn’t as great (See: Shepherding Ministry Venue: Small Groups)
Large groups, on the other hand: 1) provide an entry point for people who aren’t ready to get more intimate, 2) feel less threatening to people who are reticent to participate, 3) have potential of bringing greater diversity into fellowship, 4) can make people feel like they’re part of something bigger, 5) enable teachers to reach more people at once
It’s not simply a question of reach versus depth. The greatest benefit for people would be learning opportunities in both large and small group settings.
You’ll find a response to the following question as well in the Bible Teacher’s Handbook of Frequently Asked Questions.
How can a church provide both large and small group studies?
This handbook asks a total of 153 questions totaling 49 different issues related to Bible teaching.